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In search of the Best Macarons in Paris

After the cupcake craze that swept America (and beyond) what now feels like an eternity ago, it began to seem as if the idea of a full sized cake would forever rest in peace to give way to these mini cakes made popular by New York bakeries. Then in a sudden switch of fate, a small almond cookie known as the macaron came out from the woodworks of France (despite recent popularity across the world, these little gems have long been famous in France) and quickly took over as the world’s most sought over sweet treat.

In an age of Instagram and colour pops, the macaron has beaten the odds and stood the test of time: and so it appears here to stay! If you find yourself in the macaron capital of the world, Paris, you’ll need a full guide of where to get the best macarons in the city (and thus the world!) Fear not, we’ve got you covered.

Carette

I’m going to go against the grain here and make a bold statement: Carette has the best macarons in Paris. Despite what you may have read in guidebooks or been informed by fellow travellers, Parisians will be the first to back me up in saying that the lines at Laduree are not necessarily worthwhile, as you will find equally good (if not better) macarons around Paris at local haunts such as Carette (visit the Place des Vosges location for authenticity – ideally located in Le Marais).

25 Place des Vosges, 75003
+33 1 48 87 94 07
Open every day from 7:30 AM to Midnight

image by Faye Bullock for World of Wanderlust

Ladurée

That said, you will indeed find a very well made macaron at the patisserie that appears to have started the macaron craze as we know it today: Ladurée. If the lines and the price don’t put you off, you’ll find a variety of flavour choices here, however it must be said that the flavours are on the safe side. For adventurous flavour kicks that you never could have imagined would actually taste good, read on.

Pierre Hermé

Of course I am hinting toward the man of macarons himself: Pierre Hermé. If you hadn’t already heard, Pierre is the man responsible for skyrocketing Ladurée to worldwide success in the macaron hall of fame and after feeling complacent with the flavour combinations, Pierre set out to open his own (more inventive) patisserie. If you’re after fun flavours and incredibly made macarons, this is the place to go. Many (okay, most!) say these are the best macarons in all of Paris.

Aoki Sadaharu

Speaking of inventive flavour combinations, if you are feeling bold and brave after leaving Pierre’s patisserie, then consider stepping it up a notch for a visit to Aoki Sadaharu. This patisserie is known for their anything-but-traditional macaron flavours, with a strong hint of Japanese influence to boot.

Gérard Mulot

With fun flavours and colourful macarons, this patisserie offers an exceptionally well-made macaron (with the help of machines!) There are oodles of goodies to choose from away from the macaron, so don’t be afraid to venture out of the box!

Café Pouchkine

Undeniably one of my favourite patisseries in Paris to pass time is Café Pouchkine. This gorgeous Russian import is one of the most beautiful spaces to enter, offering a delicious selection of patisseries and of course, macarons.

Angelina

And of course this list would not be complete without mention of my all time favourite tea house in Paris; Angelina. Although not my favourite patisserie for macarons, they’re still not bad at all and Angelina also offer some of the prettiest pastry items in all of Paris!

226 rue de Rivoli, 75001
+33 1 42 60 82 00
Open every day from 8:30 AM to 7 PM

Comments

I recently tried my first macaron in Morocco … yes I know, I know! How can I have gone 26 years not eating them?! Anyway, I’m now bookmarking this post for my next trip to Paris – thanks for sharing the deliciousness! <3

Awesome reference guide. I’ve only ever heard of Laduree and Pierre Herme, and have only had their macarons in Hong Kong (Pierre Herme beats Laduree IMO!). Would love to try the other places when I go to Paris. I LOVEEE macarons so much!

Now we are talking!! This is a post after my own heart and um stomach! My husband is originally from Paris and on one trip we did a search for the perfect croissant. Of course it is all such very hard work to do! The hardship. Love the photos and comprehensive guide to those sweet little goodies!